Gun Ownership

There’s a lot of talk about restricting gun ownership in the U.S. What does Judaism say about this?

The Aish Rabbi Replies:

The Talmud speaks about owning a dangerous dog. It is generally discouraged due to the danger involved, both to the owner and to others. It is allowed, however, for protection if a person lived in a dangerous area.

Owning a gun is a comparable case, and would also be permitted for protection.

However, Jews have never been into violence, unless absolutely necessary. In his time, Moses had to cajole the people into fighting a war against their arch-enemy Amalek.